Campus

OSU-Stillwater

Contact Name & Email

Brigett Broyles, brigett.broyles@okstate.edu

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm with occasional evenings and weekends.

Appointment Length

Regular Continuous/Until Further Notice

Hiring Range

$20.00hr - $35.00/hr (contingent upon available funding)

Hourly

Special Instructions to Applicants

For full consideration, please include a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.

About this Position

The Automation Systems Technician (AST) is responsible for supporting, maintaining, and advancing campus-wide building automation systems to ensure efficient operation, occupant comfort, and energy optimization across university facilities. This role encompasses a progressive range of technical responsibilities involving HVAC controls, mechanical systems, and digital automation platforms, with increasing levels of independence, complexity, and leadership across AST I through AST IV.

ASTs serve as primary responders for automation system issues, providing timely customer service and resolving temperature control concerns while managing work orders related to the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and repair of building automation systems and associated equipment. These systems include, but are not limited to, HVAC controls, pneumatic and hydronic systems, direct digital controls (DDC), laboratory exhaust and fume hood systems, and networked control devices.

The position requires diagnosing and resolving mechanical, electrical, and network communication issues; installing and programming system hardware and controllers; and integrating new and existing systems within centralized automation platforms such as Niagara. ASTs also perform calibration of sensors, actuators, valves, and controllers; maintain system documentation and records; and utilize engineering schematics and software tools to support system functionality and upgrades.

As experience increases, ASTs take on advanced responsibilities including system optimization, control sequence design and modification, graphics and user interface development, network infrastructure maintenance, and commissioning of controllers and building systems. Higher-level ASTs provide technical leadership through project coordination, review of engineering designs, implementation of new technologies, and collaboration with engineers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to enhance system performance and energy efficiency. 

In addition, ASTs are expected to mentor and train less experienced technicians, support continuous improvement initiatives, and contribute to the long-term development and sustainability of campus automation systems. The role requires adaptability, ongoing technical learning, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic facilities environment. 

Overtime and stand-by duty are essential functions of this position and may require work during non-business hours that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The normal work environment is primarily located in mechanical equipment rooms, attics, basements, server rooms, and steam tunnels with some time spent in an office environment. This position is heavy in manual labor and requires the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently and more than 50 pounds occasionally. Additionally, ASTs must be able to climb up and down a ladder regularly.

Must use appropriate personal protective equipment as required (hard hat, vest, gloves, safety glasses, respirators, etc.). These items are provided and are not for personal use. Must work safely, adhere to all safety requirements, and promote a safe work environment.

OSU offers a generous benefits package for continuous, regular positions, including but not limited to health, life and retirement benefits, paid leave and 13 paid holidays per year. Other benefits include employee and dependent tuition waivers, free gym memberships, a free, confidential employee assistance program, and much more. 

Required Qualifications

• High School/GED (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)

• Automation Sys Tech I - two (2) years of experience working in any combination of automated systems, HVAC/R, mechanical/electrical maintenance, large building temperature controls, information technology systems including network communications, IP-based controllers, or building automation software platforms; or related vocational education.

  Automation Sys Tech II - three (3) years of experience working in automated systems, HVAC/R, and large building temperature controls; or related vocational education.

  Automation Sys Tech III - five (5) years of experience working in automated systems, HVAC/R, and large building temperature controls, local and network controller administration; or related vocational education and Tridium Niagara certification. Two years of experience must include time in seat as an OSU Automation Systems Technician I or II.

  Automation Sys Tech IV - seven (7) years of experience working in automated systems, HVAC/R, and large building temperature controls, local and network controller administration and integration; or related vocational education and Tridium Niagara certification. Four years of experience must include time in seat as an OSU Automation Systems Technician I, II or III.

  This position is part of a Career Development Plan. Candidate position placement within the plan is dependent upon years of experience.

Post-secondary education may substitute for years of required experience.

Certifications, Registrations, and/or Licenses:

Have before hire and maintain after hire, a valid driver's license. A valid driver's license must be maintained for the operation of an OSU vehicle, which is required in the performance of job duties as assigned.

Skills, Proficiencies, and/or Knowledge:

AST I

•     Foundational knowledge of HVAC systems, building automation systems, and temperature controls
•     Basic troubleshooting skills across mechanical, electrical, and low-voltage systems
•     Working familiarity with pneumatic, hydronic, and simple control devices
•     General computer proficiency
•     Ability to read and interpret basic technical documentation and schematics
•     Understanding of safe work practices around electrical systems (up to 480V)
•     Strong customer service skills and ability to communicate technical issues clearly

AST II (in addition to AST I skills)

•     Intermediate knowledge of building automation systems and HVAC control strategies
•     Ability to independently troubleshoot and repair system components and devices
•     Familiarity with basic IP networking concepts
•     Basic programming and configuration of controllers and control systems
•     Understanding of communication protocols such as BACnet and LON
•     Growing proficiency in system analytics, alarms, and trend data 
•     Ability to manage assigned buildings and maintain system performance with limited oversight

AST III (in addition to AST I and II skills)

•     Advanced knowledge of HVAC systems, automation platforms, and control system integration
•     Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills across mechanical, controls, and network systems
•     Proficiency in programming, graphics development, and system configuration within platforms such as Niagara
•     Ability to manage and maintain automation networks (IP, BACnet, MSTP, LON) and related infrastructure
•     Ability to install, wire, and configure automation equipment 
•     Capability to design, modify, and optimize control sequences for performance and efficiency
•     Ability to interpret engineering designs and contribute to system improvements
•     Demonstrated leadership through mentoring, coordination, and technical guidance 

AST IV (in addition to AST I, II, and III skills)

•     Expert-level knowledge of building automation systems, HVAC controls, and system architecture
•     Advanced proficiency in system design, integration, and optimization, including complex control strategies 
•     Strong expertise in networked automation environments, server infrastructure, and enterprise-level platforms
•     Ability to lead system commissioning, major upgrades, and large-scale integration efforts
•     Strategic understanding of energy efficiency, system analytics, and long-term performance improvements 
•     High-level collaboration skills with engineers, contractors, and leadership on system design and innovation 
•     Leadership in mentoring, training, and guiding technical direction for automation systems across the organization

Working Conditions

Overtime and stand-by duty are essential functions of this position and may require work during non-business hours that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. 

Must use appropriate personal protective equipment as required (hard hat, vest, gloves, safety glasses, respirators, etc.). These items are provided and are not for personal use.

Must work safely, adhere to all safety requirements, and promote a safe work environment. 

The normal work environment is primarily located in mechanical equipment rooms, attics, basements, server rooms, and steam tunnels, with some time spent in an office environment. 

This position is heavy in manual labor and requires the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently and more than 50 pounds occasionally. Additionally, ASTs must be able to climb up and down a ladder regularly.